Officials from London in Bloom - the regional campaign feeding into the wider Britain in Bloom campaign - arrived in Bromley last week for an intensive day of judging. Bromley officers escorted the judges on a busy 5-hour tour of the borough to look at its parks, gardens, highway roundabouts, town centres, car parks, war memorials and recycling facilities.
"Bromley is really blooming, and at this time of year it is fantastic to see our urban and rural landscapes in such good shape. The pride and enthusiasm of so many of our residents in their commitment to the community is evident throughout the borough. Without them the value of our rich and diverse environment would be greatly diminished" said Patrick Phillips, Head of Bromley's Parks and Recreation.
Among the areas visited by the judges were several countryside sites including High Elms and the Scadbury TrEE Centre. The judges later met friends groups and residents associations to witness first hand the valuable contribution made by the public in caring for and brightening up their locality.
Bromley is competing against the other London Boroughs for regional awards. Categories include the efforts of residents, such as the best front garden award, and for environment-conscious businesses, such as the best commercial premises award. There will also be an overall winner - an accolade that Bromley won last year, and has achieved five times in the last eight years.
The results of the London in Bloom competition will be announced in September. If Bromley fares well this time round, it will compete nationally with other boroughs across the country, as part of the national Britain in Bloom competition for next year. As a regional winner in 2005, judging takes place at the end of this month for Bromley’s entry into Britain In Bloom.
ENDS
Notes to editors:
- London in Bloom is a London wide campaign to create a lasting improvement to London’s environment. It was established by the London Tourist Board in 1967 following the creation of Britain in Bloom in 1963.
- Further information on London in Bloom can be found at www.inbloom.org.uk
- For media enquiries, please contact Amy Bevins, Strategy Development Officer, on 020 8313 4738, or Patrick Phillips, Head of Parks and Countryside on 020 8313 4322 or email amy.bevins@bromley.gov.uk